wrote:
I have a 1993 Robalo with a 150 Merc Black Max. It has Teleflex SeaStar
hydraulic steering, which works perfectly, but there is a very, very
slow leak of hydraulic fluid right at the very end of the cylinder -
the part in front of the motor that slides back and forth over the
chrome plated rod. It's not much - maybe 2 or 3 drops a day, right
where the rod goes in and out.

I'm pretty good with tools and repairs (I just changed the gears in my
trucks differential, for example), and this is unexplored territory for
me. Just looking at it, though, it doesn't look like anything I
couldn't figure out. Is this something I can fix myself cheaply, say
with a little washer or seal or something? Can somebody refer me to a
web site or part number?

Thanks a bunch,
Ron M.


Teleflex sells an end cap and seal assembly along with a special tool for
removing the caps. This kit can be ordered from various marine stores and
dealerships. You can also contact the folks at www.bluewaterboat.com for the
kit by mail.

Look closely at the chrome rams on each side of the cylinder for any knicks,
pits, corrosion, etc. as they will tear up a new seal very quickly. If the
ram is bad, then you have to buy a new cylinder. Keeping a film of grease on
the rams monthly will keep them from pitting and corroding.

Bill Grannis
service manager